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COLLAPSE FRACTURES OF THE SPINE
A compression fracture of the spine is a compression or compression fracture of the inside of a vertebra. This type of fracture is usually caused by a weakening or fracture of the bone structure in the anterior part of the vertebra. Collapse fractures can often occur in old age as a result of decreased bone density (osteoporosis) or trauma. Here are the causes and treatment methods for compression fractures of the spine:
Causes:
Osteoporosis:
Reduced bone density can cause bones to weaken and break quickly. Osteoporosis is particularly common in older women.
Trauma:
Forces acting on the spine as a result of falls, car accidents or other traumatic events can cause compression fractures.
Bone Tumours:
Tumours in the vertebral bones can weaken the bone structure and lead to compression fractures.
Infections:
Spinal cord infections can weaken the vertebral bones and cause collapse fractures.
Metabolic Diseases:
Some metabolic diseases can affect the health of the vertebral bones and lead to compression fractures.
Non-Surgical Treatment Methods:
Rest and Activity Limitation:
In the initial stages, individuals with a collapse fracture may be advised to rest and avoid heavy activities.
Pain Management:
Painkillers and anti-inflammatory drugs can help manage the pain associated with a collapse fracture.
Physiotherapy:
Exercise programmes that strengthen and support the spinal muscles play an important role in the rehabilitation of a compression fracture.
Protective Devices:
Special corsets or vests for spinal support can be used in the treatment of collapse fractures.
Surgical Treatment Methods:
Vertebroplasty:
In this procedure, a special cement is injected into the vertebrae with a compression fracture, which strengthens the bones and stabilises the compression fracture.
Kyphoplasty:
In kyphoplasty, a method similar to vertebroplasty, a special balloon is used to create a cavity in the area of the collapse fracture and then cement is injected.
Spinal Fusion Surgery:
A surgical procedure involving fixation and fusion of vertebrae with a compression fracture.
Laminectomy:
It involves the removal of bone tissue on the spinal cord to fuse the vertebrae and relieve pressure.
Surgical intervention is usually considered for pain control as well as to reduce pressure on the spinal cord or nerve roots. The treatment plan may vary depending on the severity of the collapse fracture condition, the patient’s state of health and other factors.